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🇨🇳 China (PRC) → Thai Driver Licence
PRC Driver's Licence (机动车驾驶证) — Class C1/C2/A/B · Convention: Non-signatory — consular route required
Quick Answer
Translation route: China is NOT a party to Geneva 1949 or Vienna 1968 — Chinese IDPs are not recognized in Thailand. Use the Chinese licence + consular certification at the Chinese Embassy Bangkok (领事认证, ¥180) + MFA legalization. Total turnaround: 5–7 day(s) (สถานทูตจีนคิวแน่น) + 1 วัน DLT. Motorcycle is issued as a SEPARATE licence (รยจ.). No road test required (physical/vision/reaction tests still apply).
DLT reciprocity notes
The 2020 China–Thailand MOU permits mutual licence recognition, but in practice consular certification is still required before DLT will convert.
Pitfalls
- Class A1 (bus) and A2 (trailer) do NOT convert to Thai บ.2/ท.2 — full re-testing required.
- All simplified Chinese fields must be fully translated into Thai; abbreviations are refused by DLT.
- Temporary licences (临时驾驶证) cannot be converted.
Documents to prepare
- ✓ Passport + current visa (Non-Imm)
- ✓ Original foreign licence + 2 copies
- ✓ Certified translation (per country route)
- ✓ Immigration/Embassy residence certificate
- ✓ Medical certificate (≤ 30 days old)
- ✓ 2× 1-inch photos
- ✓ IDP if held (for reference)
- ✓ Thai address proof (lease/tabien)
FAQ
- Why does a Chinese licence require embassy certification?
- China is not a party to the Geneva/Vienna conventions. Under Thai Motor Vehicle Act B.E. 2522 §57, DLT recognises foreign licences only when certified by the issuing state's embassy.
- What does the 2020 MOU actually allow?
- Mutual driving rights on the road, but you still need to convert the licence and go through consular certification for a full Thai licence.
Contact: 083-249-4999 · LINE @NYC168 · contact@ilc.ltd